India successfully test-fired the Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile ‘Agni-5’ from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the launch, stating it validated all operational and technical parameters and significantly boosts the country's strategic deterrence capabilities. The test was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.

The Agni-5, developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is the most advanced missile in the Agni series. This long-range, nuclear-capable ballistic missile is designed with modern navigation, guidance, warhead, and engine technologies to enhance its strike capability and accuracy. It is a land-based system with a range exceeding 5,000 kilometres, and plans are underway to expand its range to 7,500 kilometres.

 Notably, the Agni-5 is Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) capable, enabling it to fire up to three warheads simultaneously. The first test of the Agni-5 was conducted on April 19, 2012, with its first MIRVed test launch in March 2024.